SUMMARYA compromise double contrast barium enema technique not involving the use of a contact laxative is described. In essence it consists of spot films taken in erect and inverted positions with the colon outlined by both barium and air, barium in rather less amount. It has been employed routinely in private practice and occasionally in public hospital practice for the past six months, and our experience to date indicates that it is expeditious, accurate and certainly no more of an ordeal for the patient. Illustrations of the normal colon outlined by this technique and several lesions of distal bowel are included.